Discovering Kempe in Warwickshire Churches
Charles Eamer Kempe (1837 - 1907) was one of the most important and influential decorators of the later nineteenth and early twentieth century. The Kempe Studio was active in producing fine quality stained glass from the late 1860s until the Studio closed in 1934. They specialised in glass dinstinctive for its richness of colour, harmony of design, quality of drawing - especially of faces and angels - and faithful following of the traditions of medieval glass making. Kempe's legacy can be seen in over 5,000 churches and cathedrals worldwide and in Warwickshire we have our own share.
Kempe's work is distinguished by his signature. Early works include a wheatsheaf motif in the lower left hand corner and later output shows the same motif with a super-imposed tower.
His work is almost always signed but one example in our Diocese, in Clifton on Dunsmore, the Muntz window, is without a signature.
The following list will help you to explore Kempe in our Warwickshire churches. The churches marked with a * are open during daylight hours. Of the others, some have limited opening which is noted. Others are only accessible by appointment.
Ansty, St James
Aston Cantlow, St John the Baptist (Daytime Easter to end of October)*
Atherstone, St Mary (Open Tues and Fri 10am - 12 noon)
Binton, St Peter - The Scott Memorial Window*
Bourton on Dunsmore, St Peter*
Bubbenhall, St Giles
Caldecote, St Theobold and Chad
Charlecote, St Leonard*
Church Lawford, St Peter
Churchover, Holy Trinity*
Claverdon, St Michael*
Clifton on Dunsmore, St Mary*
Coventry , Holy Trinity*
Coventry, St John the Baptist (Mon- Fri 10am - 1pm + Sat noon)
Kinwarton, St Mary*
Ladbroke, All Saints*
Lillington, St Mary Magdalene
Meriden, St Lawrence
Leamington Spa St Marks (Mon - Fri 10 - 12, 2 - 5pm)
Rowington, St Lawrence
Stockton, St Michael (Open during term time Mon - Fri)
Stratford upon Avon, Holy Trinity*
Tredington, St Gregory*
Warwick, St Mary*
Weddington, St James
Wellesbourne, St Peter*
